Since joining Chelsea at Under-8s level, Murray-Campbell always dreamed of progressing through the ranks at Cobham. Now a part of our Under-21s squad, he has spent most of his life developing both as a player and a person with the Blues.

Success has followed him from an early age. He has lifted trophies at various youth levels, from the Under-13 Premier League International Tournament to the Under-16 Premier League National Tournament. More recently, he played an influential role in the Under-18s’ Premier League South title triumph under Hassan Sulaiman in 2023/24.

His progress earned him a senior debut at Stamford Bridge last season, featuring in the Blues’ emphatic 5-1 UEFA Conference League win over Shamrock Rovers - a moment he had dreamed of since first joining the club.

After signing a new two-year contract to continue his journey with his boyhood team - which he celebrated by scoring a brilliant free-kick in a 5-0 victory for our Under-21s at Newcastle United on Friday evening - Murray-Campbell reflected on the road that led him to put pen to paper on his latest deal.

'I don't know where to start,' he smiled. 'Being here from such a young age and coming up through all the age groups has been an incredible journey. It hasn't always been easy, but through the tough moments and the good ones, I'm thrilled to be extending my stay at the club.

'For my family, it means a lot too. They’ve supported me since the beginning, dropping me off at training every day and being there through it all. Everyone’s really proud, it’s just a lovely feeling.

'Looking back at pictures from when I was younger brings back so many memories. Now, having extended my contract, I’m excited to make even more.'

During his time at Cobham, Murray-Campbell has seen other defenders break through into the men’s team and make their mark, including our club captain.

'Seeing players like Reece [James], Levi [Colwill], Trevoh [Chalobah] and Josh [Acheampong] progress into the men's team is really encouraging,' he said. 'They all came through the Academy, so it shows there’s a clear pathway.

'I'm closest to Josh, since we used to play together, but the older players are all very helpful. They give tips and guidance, which is great for someone in my position.'

One of the aspects the Chelsea Academy takes great pride in is developing well-rounded individuals. We have seen success on the pitch from our Academy graduates, but we also offer programmes and opportunities to help players grow.

'Being at Chelsea since Under-8s, I’ve grown a lot as a player and as a person,' Murray-Campbell continued. 'The club develops more than just football skills, it also teaches values and morals off the pitch.

'It really feels like home now, as I’ve been here for most of my life. Being a Chelsea player is something I take pride in every day.

'I think a Chelsea player has to be a good person, respectful and willing to give 100 per cent for the club. On the pitch, everyone here is a good footballer, so that’s a given - it's about what you do off it too that matters.'

Now in his second full season at Under-21s level, Murray-Campbell is one of the older players in Calum McFarlane's squad, with a handful of younger players stepping up from the Under-18s.

'This season, our team is quite young, so my role has changed in some aspects,' he added. 'I’ve gone from being one of the youngest in the group to one of the more experienced players, helping guide the younger ones and supporting their development.

'Calum has been so good! I really like his tactics and style of play, and he’s a great person to work with. It makes me confident about the season ahead.'

Chelsea’s development squad has a busy season ahead, competing in the Premier League 2, the Premier League International Cup and the EFL Vertu Trophy. Several players are also eligible to take part in the UEFA Youth League at Under-19s level.

'With a busy schedule ahead across four competitions, I manage my time by giving 100 per cent on the pitch while taking care of recovery and off-pitch routines to stay sharp physically and mentally,' Murray-Campbell continued.

'The start of the season has been positive, which sets the tone and boosts everyone’s confidence moving forward. Personally, I want to continue developing physically to compete at the men’s level and be ready for every challenge ahead.

'I will continue to give my all in everything and hopefully continue to develop and progress as the season goes on.'

Catch the action!

Chelsea Under-21s will next be in action on Tuesday 26 August, kicking off our EFL Vertu Trophy group-stage campaign against Shrewsbury Town at The Croud Meadow, with a 7pm kick-off. The match will be available to watch live on Sky Sports.

Later in the week, the Blues travel to face Aston Villa in Premier League 2 action on Friday 29 August at 7pm. The game will be streamed live on the Chelsea Official App and official Chelsea website via our match centre.